Tire recycling plant blaze in Merced County releases thick hazardous smoke
A fire at a tire recycling facility in Ballico, Merced County produced a large black smoke plume that spread across the surrounding area.
On Monday afternoon a fire broke out at the American Tire Recycling facility on Newport Road in Ballico, Merced County, generating a thick black smoke column that drifted across the Central Valley. The Turlock Fire Department and Merced County fire crews arrived, warning that the plume could be seen from surrounding areas and advising residents to avoid the site. California Highway Patrol shut down Newport Road between Sunny Acres Avenue and East Avenue, with no timetable for reopening.
A smoke advisory was issued, cautioning individuals with sensitive respiratory conditions to limit exposure. A local resident who filmed the incident said the smoke was visible from his home in Winton. Emergency personnel remain on scene working to extinguish the fire.
Why it matters
The hazardous smoke threatens public health and disrupts travel for nearby residents.
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